Belfast women attend cancer awareness meeting

Women from community groups across Belfast attended a Cancer Awareness meeting today to discuss the effect of cancer in their communities and the importance of taking up invitations for Cervical and Breast Screening.

The Ulster Cancer Foundation invited the women to attend the meeting, which took place at the Ulster Cancer Foundation Headquarters, in response to the fact that as many as 40% of women in some areas in Northern Ireland are ignoring their invitations to attend breast screening.

Ruth Campbell, Head of Care Services, Ulster Cancer Foundation, said: “We hope that these attending this event will take this information out to the women in their communities to encourage them to attend breast and cervical screening appointments when invited.

"We are also aiming to encourage women to be more aware of changes in their health including any changes in their breasts.

"We cannot stress enough the importance of early detection in cancer, we hope to pass on the message that there are a few simple steps women can take that may actually save their lives.”

Kathleen Feenan, Co-ordinator of the Women’s Information Group added: “All participants of the Community Health Information Worker projects are aware and concerned about the health of the women in their neighbourhoods and know the importance of screening and they will now take the information back to women in their community.”

The Ulster Cancer Foundation is also providing a Freefone Helpline which is staffed by trained cancer nurses who can provide confidential advice and information for all types of cancer for everyone. The number is 0800 783 33 39.

(MB)